A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Columbus vs. Hilton Head Island for Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Columbus or Hilton Head Island?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Columbus or Hilton Head Island? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Columbus

Columbus is a friendly, welcoming, and down-to-earth city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a relaxing, peaceful, and beautiful coastal town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping.

Columbus and Hilton Head Island: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Columbus or Hilton Head Island?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hilton Head Island than Columbus, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hilton Head Island is better known for its food, resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Columbus is more popular for its museums and nightlife. Hilton Head Island is more touristy than Columbus and is known for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. Also, Hilton Head Island is famous for The Harbour Town Lighthouse. Columbus is well known for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene.

How is Columbus different from Hilton Head Island?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hilton Head Island and Columbus. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Columbus or Hilton Head Island?

Columbus is very good for its museums and history. However, Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Columbus. Popular museums around town include the Center of Science and Technology, the Franklin Park Conservatory, the Columbus Museum of Art, and the Ohio History Center.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Columbus or Hilton Head Island? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hilton Head Island is a popular place for its restaurants. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Hilton Head Island. The island has many famous restaurants but reservations during the summer are a must. Restaurants can get very crowded during peak times. For some of the best restaurants head to Shelter Cove or Harbour Town. Popular local dishes include fried seafood and oysters.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Columbus. Hearty and heavy comfort food is the mainstay in this town. There's pizza, casseroles, sausage, and milkshakes around town.

Is Columbus or Hilton Head Island Better for Nightlife?

Columbus is very good for its evening party scene. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Columbus. The live music scene is growing. There are also a growing number of breweries around town.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Hilton Head Island. There are a few sports bars and comedy clubs, but nightlife isn't really a thing in Hilton Head. This is very much a family destination that shuts down with the sunset.

Is Columbus or Hilton Head Island Better for Resorts?

Hilton Head Island is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Columbus is not a resort destination.

Hilton Head Island is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of weekly condo rentals, which usually include a pool and outdoor space. Tennis and golf are also popular on the island so many resorts have facilities for each.

Columbus is not a resort destination.

Is Columbus or Hilton Head Island Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Columbus is not a beach destination.

Hilton Head Island is considered a top beach destination. The island has nice beaches that are popular with families. They are great for swimming during the spring, summer, and fall seasons. While some beaches may get a bit crowded during peak holidays, they're usually pretty relaxed and less crowded than many nearby beaches.

Columbus is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Columbus or Hilton Head Island?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Columbus and Hilton Head Island.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Columbus. In addition to the standard shopping malls and retail outlets, there are some interesting shops in the Short North Arts District, German Village, and Easton Town Center.

Hilton Head Island offers some nice shopping areas. The area has upscale shopping with designer names and local venues. Popular shopping areas include Shelter Cove Town Center and Harbor Town.

Is Columbus or Hilton Head Island Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Hilton Head Island is a very family-friendly destination. This area is a popular family-friendly beach destination with a number of summer events for the whole family, peaceful beaches, and family-friendly restaurants throughout. Older kids will enjoy cycling around the island's many bike trails or attending a popular tennis camp.

Columbus is a very kid-friendly city. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a highlight for many families. Right by it is the Zoombezi Bay Waterpark. For hands-on science-based activities check out the Center of Science and Industry. Kids will also love the Legoland Discovery Center or the Anthony-Thomas Candy Factory. There are also many outdoor parks, greenways, and playgrounds to visit.

Is Columbus or Hilton Head Island Better for Couples?

Hilton Head Island is a popular place for romance. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Hilton Head Island is a nice destination for couples. While the area is most popular with families, it is a fun place to explore as a couple because of the many high end restaurants and the beautiful setting. Couples can rent bikes to explore or play a friendly game of tennis.

Most people don't think of Columbus as a couple's destination. You'll find restaurants and music venues that make for a nice date night. There are also wine tours and other entertainment options.

Is Columbus or Hilton Head Island Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Columbus is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Columbus. While there's a bus system, you'll really want to have a vehicle to get around town efficiently.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Hilton Head Island. You must have a car to get most places on the island, unless you bike. Rush hour during summer months can have intense traffic.

Is Columbus or Hilton Head Island a more walkable city?

Columbus is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Columbus is a somewhat walkable city. The older neighborhoods are the most walkable, but if you want to get around town, you'll need to have a car.

Hilton Head Island is generally not very walkable. You really need a car to get around, but for those who are motivated, there is a great network of bike trails. It's mostly used for recreational purposes though.

For even more information, also check out Is Columbus Worth Visiting? and Is Hilton Head Island Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilton Head Island or Columbus?

How long in Columbus or Hilton Head Island?

Both Columbus and Hilton Head Island have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hilton Head Island than in Columbus. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Columbus, and 5-7 days is enough time in Hilton Head Island.

Families should spend more time in Hilton Head Island than Columbus. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Hilton Head Island, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Hilton Head Island than Columbus. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Hilton Head Island that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Columbus than Hilton Head Island if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Columbus.

One day in Columbus or Hilton Head Island?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the friendly destination of Columbus. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

The coastal town of Hilton Head Island offers shopping and food. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Columbus or Hilton Head Island?

Columbus is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the welcoming city of Columbus. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Columbus has to offer.

Hilton Head Island is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Columbus or Hilton Head Island?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting Columbus. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Hilton Head Island is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hilton Head Island, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Columbus or Hilton Head Island?

Columbus is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Hilton Head Island is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hilton Head Island has to offer. This coastal town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Columbus and Hilton Head Island, we can see that Hilton Head Island is more expensive. And not only is Columbus much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Columbus would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Columbus and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Hilton Head Island would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hilton Head Island than you might in Columbus.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Columbus Expensive? and Is Hilton Head Island Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Columbus or Hilton Head Island?

Columbus has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Hilton Head Island. When comparing the sizes of Columbus and Hilton Head Island, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Columbus or Hilton Head Island?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Columbus or Hilton Head Island in the Summer?

Both Hilton Head Island and Columbus are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Columbus this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Columbus is generally cooler than Hilton Head Island. Daily temperatures in Columbus average around 77°F (25°C), and Hilton Head Island fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Hilton Head Island. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Columbus. Columbus usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island during summer. Columbus gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Hilton Head Island receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilton Head Island. It's quite rainy in Columbus. In July, Columbus usually receives less rain than Hilton Head Island. Columbus gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Columbus or Hilton Head Island in the Autumn?

Both Hilton Head Island and Columbus during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Columbus for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Hilton Head Island in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Columbus is cooler than Hilton Head Island in the autumn. The daily temperature in Columbus averages around 57°F (14°C) in October, and Hilton Head Island fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In Hilton Head Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Columbus often gets less sunshine than Hilton Head Island. Columbus gets 179 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilton Head Island receives 223 hours of full sun.

Columbus usually gets less rain in October than Hilton Head Island. Columbus gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Columbus or Hilton Head Island in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Columbus and Hilton Head Island. Many visitors come to Columbus in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Columbus can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Columbus is much colder than Hilton Head Island. Typically, the winter temperatures in Columbus in January average around 30°F (-1°C), and Hilton Head Island averages at about 48°F (9°C).

Columbus usually receives less sunshine than Hilton Head Island during winter. Columbus gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Hilton Head Island receives 176 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Columbus usually receives less rain than Hilton Head Island. Columbus gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Columbus or Hilton Head Island in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Columbus as well as Hilton Head Island. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Hilton Head Island because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Columbus is generally much colder than Hilton Head Island. Daily temperatures in Columbus average around 54°F (12°C), and Hilton Head Island fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hilton Head Island. In the spring, Columbus often gets less sunshine than Hilton Head Island. Columbus gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilton Head Island receives 275 hours of full sun.

Columbus usually gets more rain in April than Hilton Head Island. Columbus gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hilton Head Island and Columbus